A joint bulletin has been issued today by multiple US federal and state regulators. The bulletin encourages banks to help meet the needs of their customers during the Coronavirus crisis. The agencies issuing the bulletin include:
- Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
- National Credit Union Administration
- Office of Comptroller of the Currency
- Conference of State Bank Supervisors
The bulletin is republished below.
Federal financial institution regulators and state regulators today encouraged financial institutions to meet the financial needs of customers and members affected by the coronavirus. The agencies recognize the potential impact of the coronavirus on the customers, members, and operations of many financial institutions and will provide appropriate regulatory assistance to affected institutions subject to their supervision.
Regulators note that financial institutions should work constructively with borrowers and other customers in affected communities. Prudent efforts that are consistent with safe and sound lending practices should not be subject to examiner criticism.
The agencies understand that many financial institutions may face current staffing and other challenges. In cases in which operational challenges persist, regulators will expedite, as appropriate, any request to provide more convenient availability of services in affected communities. The regulators also will work with affected financial institutions in scheduling examinations or inspections to minimize disruption and burden.